Category: Subject Index

Study Material Categorized by Subject

The Patternists: Christ Does ALL the Work?

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A woman, in commenting on an article I had written, stated her belief that we are saved by grace (which is a given), then stated regarding her eternal salvation that yes, we need to follow Jesus, but that He does all the work. And, regarding her life, maybe Jesus hasn’t gone through all the steps as of yet.

This idea is a bit different from what is commonly stated by those who teach salvation by faith alone. They claim we do nothing, rather that we trust in the finished work of Christ.

To be clear, Jesus secured our hope for redemption when he shed His blood for our sins (cf. Matthew 26:28). After His resurrection, He ascended to the right hand of the Father. His work in redeeming men is finished. The gift of grace has been extended. But, if nothing else is clear in scripture, this is – God expects us to do our part!

Consider Hebrews 5:9, “And having been perfected, He became the author of eternal salvation to all who obey Him.” If we want to be with Christ in eternity, there is work we too must do!

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FB: Wicked Fools!

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“An oracle within my heart concerning the transgression of the wicked: There is no fear of God before his eyes. For he flatters himself in his own eyes, when he finds out his iniquity and when he hates. The words of his mouth are wickedness and deceit; he has ceased to be wise and to do good. He devises wickedness on his bed; he sets himself in a way that is not good; he does not abhor evil.” (Psalm 36:1-4)

The Psalmist refers to the sins of the wicked, that they speak to him. It may be that the transgressions harmed him personally. He expresses an intimate knowledge of the evil done.

How can a man do wickedness, and flatter himself? How can he think highly of himself when he hates others? When he deceives? When he rebels against his Creator?

While it seems incredible, the debased mind is commonly found in every nation and in every age. Paul knew why, because men “did not like to retain God in their knowledge” (Romans 1:28). It is foolish, but does explain the current state of our society. In contrast, the righteous fear the Lord! (cf. Proverbs 3:7).

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Sermon: The Gospels of Christ

This sermon is a discussion of the gospels of Christ, and their purpose.

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Sermon: Christ, the Faithful Son

This sermon is a discussion of Hebrews 3.

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Sermon: Lessons Learned from Judas Iscariot

In Matthew 26 & 27, several important lessons are learned from the life, betrayal and death of Judas Iscariot.

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Sermon: The Faithful Few

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Throughout history, God’s faithful have been few. But, those few have preserved humanity, relied upon God’s wisdom and strength, found the way of life, and have been found worthy!

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Sermon: Jehoiakim’s Knife

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Even though Jehoiakim took a knife to God’s word, he couldn’t rid himself of God’s prophecy. However, he did bring destruction upon himself. We need to learn from his mistake!

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Sermon: In the World, But not OF the World

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What should the Christian’s response to worldliness be? This lesson discusses the question.

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Depending Upon the Word of God

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There are consequences to men who do not understand their place in relation to God. Too often men seek their own counsel, and pay no respect to the One who made them. “Woe to those who seek deep to hide their counsel far from the Lord, and their works are in the dark; they say, ‘Who sees us?’ and, ‘Who knows us?’ Surely you have things turned around! Shall the potter be esteemed as the clay; for shall the thing made say of him who made it, ‘He did not make me’? Or shall the thing formed say of him who formed it, ‘He has no understanding’?” (Isaiah, 29:15-16).

Continue reading “Depending Upon the Word of God”

The Rule of Law

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The phrase, “rule of law” is bandied about in political discussions in our time. It is an interesting phrase, and an understanding of it has some interesting spiritual implications:

Continue reading “The Rule of Law”

Sermon: The Prophet Elijah

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What kind of man was Elijah. The same type of man as many who are righteous (cf. James 5:17).

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Sermon: The Show Me Religion

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We should always back our claims of faithfulness with obedience. Christianity is the “Show Me” Religion.

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Video: Priorities Are Everything!

Video: Carpentry Is Not For Me!

Sermon: Zip It!

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Some times it is better to keep your mouth shut. When you are angry. When you lack all the facts. If your words may offend. If tempted to joke about sin. If tempted to make light of holy things. If the issue is none of your business. If your words would make you ashamed later. If you would damage the reputation of the guiltless. When you are feeling critical. When you have already spoken once. When it is time to listen.

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